In this episode, Tracee Metcalfe shares her incredible journey of climbing all 14 of the world's highest peaks, reflecting on the challenges, logistics, and emotional significance of her climbs. She discusses the hardest climb, Annapurna, and the meaningful experience of summiting Shisha Pangma after a tragic avalanche. Tracee emphasizes the importance of teamwork with Sherpas, mental resilience, and the role of connectivity during her expeditions. She also opens up about her fear of heights and the techniques she used to manage it throughout her climbing career. In this conversation, Tracee Metcalfe shares her insights on climbing, focusing on the mental and physical preparation required for high-altitude expeditions. She discusses the importance of acknowledging fear, using mantras, and the role of meditation in managing anxiety. Tracee also reflects on her physical training regimen, the challenges of reintegrating into everyday life after expeditions, and the personal growth she has experienced through her climbing journey. She emphasizes the need to inspire others, particularly women, to pursue climbing and shares practical tips for first-time climbers.

Takeaways

• Tracee became the first US woman to complete climbing all 14 peaks.
• Annapurna was one of her most challenging climbs due to various issues.
• The emotional significance of summiting Shisha Pangma was profound for Tracee.
• She emphasizes the importance of letting Sherpas make safety decisions.
• Climbing rejuvenates her and provides a sense of purpose.
• She learned to manage her fear of heights through therapy techniques.
• Tracee reflects on the ethics of climbing and Sherpa safety.
• She acknowledges the challenges of logistics and planning for climbs.
• The journey of climbing has strengthened her relationships with family. Fear is a natural part of climbing that must be acknowledged.
• Using mantras can help calm the mind during climbs.
• Meditation can be beneficial for mental preparation.
• Physical training should be tailored to individual needs and limitations.
• Reintegration after an expedition can be challenging and requires self-compassion.
• Setting new goals can help with the transition back to everyday life.
• It's important to inspire others through personal climbing stories.
• Climbing is a journey of personal growth and self-acceptance.

Engagement Link

Tracee’s website: https://traceelmetcalfe.com

EMDR therapy: https://www.emdria.org/about-emdr-therapy/

Overview of 8,000 meter peaks: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Eight-thousander

5280: https://www.5280.com/tracee-metcalfe-pursues-the-worlds-highest-mountains/

Ascend Athletics: https://www.ascendathletics.org

In this episode of the Finding Elevation podcast, host Lisa Thompson discusses the difference between resolutions and intentions, emphasizing the importance of identity in achieving lasting change. She shares practical strategies for setting intentions and highlights the significance of showing up consistently to work towards personal goals. The conversation encourages listeners to embrace the process of becoming who they want to be, rather than focusing solely on outcomes.

Takeaways

1. Start with identity: Instead of focusing on what you want to achieve, ask yourself, “Who do I want to become?"Write it down, and let that be your guiding intention. Stick it to your computer monitor, to your treadmill.
2. Create rituals around showing up: Lay out your gear the night before. Schedule your training like an important meeting, put it on your calendar. These small rituals help anchor your intention. I also like linking a new habit with an existing one.
3. Embrace imperfect action: You don’t have to be perfect. Missing one workout doesn’t mean you’ve failed. Remember, the goal isn’t perfection—it’s consistency and it's making consistent improvements over time.
4. Celebrate the process: Reflect on how showing up makes you feel, even if you’re tired or the workout didn’t go as planned. Every step you take reinforces your identity and builds momentum.
5. Revisit your intention regularly: Remind yourself of the future you’re committed to creating. Write it on a sticky note, put it on your mirror, or say it out loud each morning.

In this conversation, Dave Taylor shares his journey of summiting Aconcagua, the highest mountain in South America, focusing on the lessons learned from his first attempt and the extensive preparation for his successful second attempt. The discussion covers the importance of team dynamics, personal reflection, training strategies, acclimatization, and the role of breath work in enhancing performance at high altitudes. Dave emphasizes the significance of self-assessment and adapting one's approach to achieve goals in mountaineering. In this conversation, Dave Taylor reflects on his recent climbing experience on Aconcagua, discussing the mental and physical preparation required for such an endeavor. He shares insights on overcoming self-doubt, the emotional journey to the summit, and the importance of focusing on the process rather than the outcome. The discussion also highlights the parallels between mountaineering and leadership, emphasizing the significance of training and mental resilience. Dave concludes with key takeaways for aspiring climbers, stressing the need for thorough preparation and a positive mindset.

Takeaways

• There are no failures, only lessons learned.
• Team dynamics play a crucial role in climbing success.
• Self-reflection is key to improvement.
• Preparation involves both physical and mental aspects.
• Acclimatization is essential for high-altitude climbing.
• Using guides can enhance the climbing experience.
• Breath work can significantly improve performance.
• Trusting the training process is vital.
• Personal accountability is important in team settings.
• Every climber has their own approach to summiting. Stay in your bubble and avoid negative comparisons.
• Preparation is key; train thoroughly for your goals.
• Mental strength is as important as physical fitness.
• The emotional journey to the summit can be complex.
• Summiting is just halfway; the descent is equally challenging.
• Stay focused on what you can control, especially in uncertain situations.
• Lessons from climbing can translate to leadership and teamwork.
• Process over outcome is crucial in achieving goals.
• Limit outside distractions to stay present in the moment.
• Understand the unique challenges of each mountain you climb.

Engagement Link

LinkedIn: LDR Leadership, www.ldrleadership.com

IG: https://www.instagram.com/livefast_playhard/

Dave’s LinkedIn post about his Aconcagua summit: https://www.linkedin.com/posts/davidtaylor72_outdoors-climbing-process-activity-7280630851652968448-5Zwa?utm_source=combined_share_message&utm_medium=member_desktop_web